NCLEX-RN
NCLEX RN Practice Questions Free Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse should know that according to current thinking, the most important prognostic factor for a client with breast cancer is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Although tumor size is a factor in classification of cancer growth, it is not an indicator of lymph node spread. Axillary node status is the most important indicator for predicting how far the cancer has spread. If the lymph nodes are positive for cancer cells, the prognosis is poorer. The client's previous history of cancer puts her at an increased risk for breast cancer recurrence, especially if the cancer occurred in the other breast. It does not predict prognosis, however. The estrogen-progesterone assay test is used to identify present tumors being fed from an estrogen site within the body. Some breast cancers grow rapidly as long as there is an estrogen supply such as from the ovaries. The estrogen-progesterone assay test does not indicate the prognosis.
Question 2 of 5
A client is admitted with suspected acute pancreatitis. Which lab finding confirms the diagnosis?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Elevated serum amylase (typically >3 times normal) is a key diagnostic marker for acute pancreatitis due to pancreatic enzyme leakage. The other findings are nonspecific or normal.
Question 3 of 5
Assessment of severe depression in a client reveals feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness; inability to feel pleasure; sleep, psychomotor, and nutritional alterations; delusional thinking; negative view of self; and feelings of abandonment. These clinical features of the client's depression alert the nurse to prioritize problems and care by addressing which of the following problems first:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Anorexia and weight loss are problems that need attention in severe depression, but they can be addressed secondary to immediate concerns. Impaired thinking and confusion are problems in severe depression that are addressed with administration of medication, through group and individual psychotherapy, and through activity therapy as motivation and interest increase. Possible harm to self as with suicidal ideation; a suicide plan, means to execute plan; and/or overt gestures or an attempt must be addressed as an immediate concern and safety measures implemented appropriate to the risk of suicide. Rest and activity impairment may take time and further assessment to determine client's sleep pattern and amount of psychomotor retardation with the more immediate concern for safety present.
Question 4 of 5
Following the delivery of a healthy newborn, a client has developed thrombophlebitis and is receiving heparin IV. What are the signs and symptoms of a heparin overdose for which the nurse would need to observe during postpartum care of the client?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Hematuria, ecchymosis, and epistaxis are the most common signs and symptoms of a heparin overdose, indicating bleeding tendencies.
Question 5 of 5
The physician has ordered synthetic thyroid medication for a patient with hypothyroidism. The nurse should instruct the client to:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Thyroid medication (e.g. levothyroxine) is best taken in the morning on an empty stomach with water to optimize absorption and align with the body’s circadian rhythm. Taking it with food or at other times may reduce efficacy.